Microsoft Developer presents an in-depth episode featuring Burke Holland discussing the open-sourced VS Code Copilot Extension. Explore advanced Copilot customization, new features, and community contribution pathways.

VS Code Copilot Extension is Open Source: Expert Insights with Burke Holland

Join the Microsoft Developer team and guest Burke Holland from the Visual Studio Advocacy Team for an in-depth look at the newly open-sourced VS Code Copilot Extension. This episode covers:

Key Topics

• Open Sourcing VS Code Copilot Extension: Learn about the strategy and impact of making the Copilot Extension for VS Code open source, including how you can get involved as a contributor.

• Copilot Custom Modes: Gain practical knowledge on using Custom Modes to tailor the Copilot AI’s behavior for specific tasks. This enables developers to optimize generated code output and chat interactions, reducing costs and increasing productivity.

• ‘Beast Mode’ Custom Agent: Explore ‘Beast Mode’, now available in VS Code Insiders. Understand its capabilities and how it helps developers push the boundaries of Copilot customization.

• How to Contribute: Get step-by-step insights about contributing to the Copilot Extension projects, with tips from Burke Holland on effective open-source participation.

• Roadmap & Next Steps: Finish with an overview of upcoming features and how to get started integrating advanced AI-powered capabilities in your developer workflow.

Resources and Further Reading

• VS Code Copilot Chat Extension GitHub
• VS Code Copilot Extension Documentation
• Burke's Beast Mode
• Awesome Copilot Project
• Prompting Guides (GPT 4.1, GPT 5)

Connect with the Presenters

• Burke Holland on LinkedIn
• Jorge Arteiro on LinkedIn

Contribute to Open at Microsoft

• Submit Your OSS Project

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